Why are homeless people dirty and smell?

Some of the Homeless do not have a change of clothes, from not able to carry bags (some cities made it a law that they can not carry bags or personal belonging or just not physically able to carry a bag).  Some do not have the money to even buy deodorant. Some have no where they can shower. Even taking what is referred to as a "Bird Bath" is getting more difficult, places of business are not allowing them to enter.

Is it legal to beg for money?

Yes, if done in a peaceful matter and laws that prohibit certain areas are followed. Many Courts Have Ruled Peaceful Panhandling Is Protected Under the First Amendment, Selective Enforcement Has Target the Poor and Homeless.

Monitored by the American Civil Liberties Union.

What if I don't want to give money to a homeless person?

Then you don't have to. Just say no.

If a homeless person asks me for money and I say no, what do I do if they don't stop?

Tell them again, if they make you feel threaten tell them you will call the police. Most will stop, they do not want the trouble. If they don't call.

Can I offer money or food to a homeless person?

Yes. You can offer money, food and clothing at anytime.They will be very grateful. Not all ask.

Why do the homeless beg for money and what do they use the money for?

Those that panhandle have no other source of income. Most use the money to buy food, clothing, toiletries or even a night in a motel (a warm bed to sleep in). You will see some "Flying" a sign, they panhandle for the same reason.  Remember, it is your choice if you give. Or to ask what they need and if you choose to help, buy food or what ever requested yourself and give to them.

Why don't the homeless get a job?

A lot of the Homeless have jobs, some work only part-time or are getting minimum wage. They can not afford housing.  There are other reasons such as, health issues and not being able to bath or even have a change of clothes (some areas it is illegal to carry a bag).

Can we make the homeless leave our town?

No you can not, they have just as much of a right to be there as you do.  Some of the Homeless might even be from your town and they feel safe in an area they know. No on has the right to take "Being Human" away from anyone. The rights of the Homeless are being monitored by the American Civil Liberties Union.

Can I offer money or food to a homeless person?

Yes. You can offer money, food and clothing at anytime.They will be very grateful. Not all ask.

Why do the homeless sleep on the street and not in a shelter?

Most do sleep at shelters.  In some areas there are no shelters or they only have some many beds, cots or mats available.  A good example is, if you have 500 Homeless people in your area and your shelter only has 200 or less beds-Where do the others go?  They prefer to stay where they feel safe and close to the resources available.

Do the homeless use food pantries?

Yes most do. In some areas, they can stand in line for hours and there be no food. The pantries either do not have enough donations or they are being taken advantage of by those who do not need the help.

How do I donate clothes and what kind?

Contact your local churches, even the food banks and ask where you can donate Donating to the Thrift Stores, the Homeless might never get them.  Not only pants and shirts are needed, shoes, under clothing and blankets.  Depending what area you are in jackets are very important. Toiletries are a must also.  The Clothing resource for the Homeless is also being taken advantage of now.

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If you have no luck getting any info, send us a message and we will help.  Send Message

How do I donate food and what is needed?

Call you local food bank or churches in your area.  Can Goods have always been what has been donated, keep in might some of the Homeless have no way to open them (pop tops are best) and others are unable to carry-the weight adds up or it is illegal in their area to have bags. Be mindful of dates when donating food, some food banks will give food that has expired 5 yrs ago and tell the Homeless if you don't want it someone else will. 

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If you can not get the info you need contact us and we will help.  Send Message

What if I just want to buy something for the homeless and give it to them myself?

You can do that.  Any act of kindness is greatly appreciated. 

Can I buy something with an agency for the homeless and will they get it?

Yes. If you are unsure, where to get the item you are looking for, some agencies offer the service.  Or you can purchase with us and we will see to it your gift goes where you want it to. 

Do people choose to be homeless?

Some do. Most were forced into Homeless from health issues, lose of income, not being able to afford housing, addictions, released from prison or an institution and no where to go. There are many reasons and no one knows the full truth expect each individual person.

I heard there are homeless veterans, is this true?

Yes.

Checking with The National Coalition For Homeless Veterans

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"In addition to the complex set of factors influencing all homelessness – extreme shortage of affordable housing, livable income and access to health care – a large number of displaced and at-risk veterans live with lingering effects of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and substance abuse, which are compounded by a lack of family and social support networks. Additionally, military occupations and training are not always transferable to the civilian workforce, placing some veterans at a disadvantage when competing for employment.

A top priority for homeless veterans is secure, safe, clean housing that offers a supportive environment free of drugs and alcohol."

Is it true that some homeless people suffer from mental illness?

Yes, unfortunately it is true.

Checking with The National Coalition For The Homeless

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"PREVALENCE

​According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, 20 to 25% of the homeless population in the United States suffers from some form of severe mental illness. In comparison, only 6% of Americans are severely mentally ill (National Institute of Mental Health, 2009). In a 2008 survey performed by the U.S. Conference of Mayors, 25 cities were asked for the three largest causes of homelessness in their communities.  Mental illness was the third largest cause of homelessness for single adults (mentioned by 48% of cities).  For homeless families, mental illness was mentioned by 12% of cities as one of the top 3 causes of homelessness.

RELATIONSHIP TO HOMELESSNESS

Serious mental illnesses disrupt people’s ability to carry out essential aspects of daily life, such as self care and household management.  Mental illnesses may also prevent people from forming and maintaining stable relationships or cause people to misinterpret others’ guidance and react irrationally.  This often results in pushing away caregivers, family, and friends who may be the force keeping that person from becoming homeless.  As a result of these factors and the stresses of living with a mental disorder, people with mentally illnesses are much more likely to become homeless than the general population (Library Index, 2009).  A study of people with serious mental illnesses seen by California’s public mental health system found that 15% were homeless at least once in a one-year period (Folsom et al., 2005).  Patients with schizophrenia or bipolar disorder are particularly vulnerable.

Poor mental health may also affect physical health, especially for people who are homeless.  Mental illness may cause people to neglect taking the necessary precautions against disease.  When combined with inadequate hygiene due to homelessness, this may lead to physical problems such as respiratory infections, skin diseases, or exposure to tuberculosis or HIV.  In addition, half of the mentally ill homeless population in the United States also suffers from substance abuse and dependence (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration).  Minorities, especially African Americans, are over-represented in this group.  Some mentally ill people self-medicate using street drugs, which can lead not only to addictions, but also to disease transmission from injection drug use.  This combination of mental illness, substance abuse, and poor physical health makes it very difficult for people to obtain employment and residential stability."